: Familiarize yourself with grades: AAA is premium (strong color, few blemishes), while A to D show decreasing quality in cut, clarity, and saturation.
Gemstone Bead Quality Checklist * Authentic material: Natural gemstone beads have subtle variations, inclusions, and color shifts. The Bead Traders Buying semi-precious beads – a guide to size and shape buy semi precious stone beads
Beads are measured in millimeters, and a standard strand is typically 15–16 inches long. : Familiarize yourself with grades: AAA is premium
: Look for natural inclusions, internal fractures, and "imperfections" like small chips near drill holes, which indicate natural origin. Beware of "too-perfect" beads, which may be plastic or glass. : Look for natural inclusions, internal fractures, and
: Best used as focal points in bold, "statement" jewelry.
: Reputable sellers will disclose if beads are dyed, heat-treated, or stabilized. Dyed beads may bleed color if rubbed with acetone. 2. Choose the Right Size and Shape